Sands of Nezza by M.L. Forman

After hundreds of years without a true king, the desert land of Nezza is in danger of falling under the rule of a ruthless lord advised by an evil wizard with dark intentions. A desperate cry for help brings Alexander Taylor to this perilous land and sets events in motion that will require him to rescue an old friend from and impenetrable dungeon.

Once in Nezza, Alex meets a new band of adventurers and joins them in their quest to find young Prince Rallian the man destined to become the rightful king of Nezza. In their path lies a deadly sand monster, a wise and insightful oracle, a massive army of illusions, and a host of lords and leaders ready to fight for and against the king of their land.